Wearable Sweat Sensor Made from Microbial Nanocellulose
Researchers are testing sensors that measure metal ions and other biomarkers in sweat, via medgadget
Researchers in Brazil have developed a wearable sweat sensor made from microbial nanocellulose. The natural polymer provides a breathable interface with the underlying skin and allows sweat to travel through for electrochemical analysis using printed electrodes. The system can measure a wide variety of metabolites and biomarkers present in sweat, and could be useful for monitoring conditions such as diabetes.
Wearable sensors are developing apace, and hold significant promise in monitoring various biomarkers. However, developing materials that interface well with the skin is a challenge, with many sensors, including plastic-based films, causing sweat to build up underneath, hindering measurements and causing irritation. These researchers set out to develop a sensor that would allow the underlying skin to breathe, and used a natural polymer to achieve this.
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